Balearic Holidays – A Guide to the Balearic Islands

Claire — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 17:36:43 +0000

Ask anyone and they will tell you that the Mediterranean offers perfect getaway. Its temperate climate and refreshing air, its turquoise water and azure sky, all make up a land and water mass that is as romantic as it is splendid. The jewel in the Mediterranean crown lies on the western edge of the ocean, close to the Iberian Peninsula. A group of islands under the Spain, the Balearic Islands consist of a few large and some smaller islands the dot the ocean. Mallorca, Minorca, Ibiza, and Formentera form the larger of the islands and have been the centre of romance even as far back to the days of Aristotle.

Beach in Mallorca, Balearic islands, Spain by Boris van Hoytema

Mallorca

This is the largest of the islands and hosts the capital city of Palma. Tourists flying in to the Balearic Islands will land here before going on to their final destinations. It is also the port of entry if arriving by ship. Some of the most modern sea vessels offering a delightful experience ply the route between the mainland, from Barcelona to Palma.

Minorca

The name Minorca refers to the smaller island as opposed to Mallorca’s larger island. History buffs visit the island to view the many stone monuments that populate this island. The megaliths give evidence to the notion that there was prehistoric civilizations in this part of the world. Its latest claim to fame was its historic pirate activity at the end of the Punic wars. This was the other attraction from history buffs.

Ibiza

Aside from all the partying that Ibiza is usually associated with, this is another historian’s paradise. Ibiza was at the forefront of the changes that occurred to this area after decline of the Phoenicians. The area was inhabited by settlers as far back as 650BC. As the Assyrians ascended to power while the Phoenicians waned, Ibiza came under the control of ancient Carthage. Today, its status as a party town is almost legendary and it continues to attract a crowd that is young and energetic.

Typical coastline of Balearic islands, Spain by David Sim

Formentera

Of all the Balearic Islands, this is the smallest and lies far to the south of the group. It is also the least populated of all the islands and offers a serene and tranquil Mediterranean lifestyle. The island is a throwback to the ways of the ancients that inhabited the island and it is a real getaway from all the walking and dancing the other islands offer. The best thing to do here is to lie on the beach and enjoy the ocean spray and pristine air as it cools your skiing while the sun tans it.

Travel Tips

As with any venture out into the unknown, or away from your home, it is always best to understand the exact local culture and local offerings of your destination. The best way to enjoy it is to plan everything and be prepared for everything. Getting European travel insurance is not a bad idea. This will give you peace of mind as you venture into the unknown.

James Rowland works in SEO for a prestigious marketing company in the UK. With years of experience in copywriting he enjoys writing about travel, insurance, finance and sport.